The Little Wins

 Caregiving days can be a little bit (okay, a WHOLE LOT) crazy. I won't start with my list, because I know you have one that matches, or maybe a little bit longer! We understand how lonely the walk can be and how difficult each day is. Caregiver burnout is real, but for many of us, we have to ignore it and keep pressing through. There isn't relief on the way; the cavalry isn't coming!

We often struggle under the load, but we can't let anyone know as I mentioned in a recent post. What we end up doing is finding ways to walk numbly through the toughest parts of our days, while hoping something brighter is on the other side. We can't talk about mental health because someone might think we are not fit to be caregivers. But there are some ways to help.

Firstly, as believers, we run to God's word for comfort, direction, and help. We know that He is our present help in time of need. And all our time - is a time of need. The old hymn comes to mind - I need thee, O I need thee, every hour I need thee. We need His strength, wisdom, and direction constantly. He is our constant and consistent companion!

Secondly, I've developed the practice of celebrating every win, even the smallest ones! This is aligned with my health coaching idea (Every Step's A Victory!). This morning, three small wins that I celebrated included:

• We had enough eggs for breakfast
• I got Chris' supplies several days early, so I don't have to buy immediately!
• He had a good BM this morning (IYKYK!!!)

Sometimes, it's the seemingly smallest wins that carry the most weight. We know scriptures tell us to take our burdens, struggles, and problems to Him. Let Him do the heavy work. And while we are quick to take our souls to Him, we are still left to tend to the physical parts of caregiving that God can't do. People don't get that, do they? 

So, we just continue trusting Him with it all. Over and over again. And He keeps showing up over and over again. He is the one constant we can count on in this crazy life. Even if we don't see a lot of big wins, or the results we want every single day, we can change our whole day by having an attitude of gratitude, even if that means celebrating super small wins throughout the day. I really believe He meets us in those.

Today, whether I feel like I'm winning or losing, I will find the small wins to celebrate. I'll let Him walk into this day and help me by carrying my burdens and me! I will quiet my soul by leaning into His word for comfort. And I'll meditate on His constant presence, while I remind myself that He is right here with me, even when I feel like I'm losing it! He's got me and I know I can trust Him for one more day, will you join me?

Check out my latest release. Command Your Morning part 2. This 31-day devotional is the second one in my series Command Your Morning. (Yes, I already started on part 3 - and you're gonna love it!) Take a 31-day journey through Psalm 119 as you practice setting your intention to point your heart at God each day. It's available on Kindle and Print. Check it out!

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